Science of Reading Early Literacy Instruction Framework

This document is a guide that outlines the science of reading and its application in providing research-based early literacy instruction for students. It emphasizes the importance of literacy skills for academic, social, and economic success, detailing the five key components of reading: Phonemic Awareness, Phonics, Fluency, Vocabulary, and Comprehension. The guide discusses the necessity of evidence-based programs for supporting reading proficiency, particularly for students in kindergarten through third grade. It highlights the role of explicit, systematic instruction in foundational reading skills and the importance of instructional scaffolding to assist students in mastering these skills. The document also describes the Imagine Language & Literacy program, which is designed to accelerate early literacy development through structured instructional sequences that build foundational skills before introducing more complex concepts. Additionally, it addresses the significance of vocabulary and comprehension in reading development, providing insights into effective instructional strategies and the integration of academic language development into literacy instruction.